Sweeney's Saga One To Treasure

May 18, 1986|By Reviewed by Joan M. Dunn, Special to The Sentinel

The Emancipist, the first effort of author Veronica Sweeney, is a treasure, a book to savor slowly. For readers who love sagas and stories rich in characterization, The Emancipist will be the book that leads you to your easy chair.

Although the book jacket calls the story a ''saga of the early days of Australia,'' we first meet Aidan O'Brien as a spritely 6-year-old in 19th- century Ireland. The O'Briens are tenants of William Kelly on the sprawling estate of Willerana in County Clare. Kelly takes young Aidan under his wing, sees to his early education and employs him in the stables, caring for thoroughbred stock. But while Aidan's quick mind and adaptability wins William Kelly's favor, it earns him the jealousy of William's pampered son, Devlin.

Meanwhile, Ireland is on the edge of revolt as tenants and landowners come to terms with the injustices of British rule. Aidan grows to manhood amid famine and political upheaval. Still, he is devoted to William Kelly and his ideals.

But injustice follows Aidan, while fortune hovers just slightly out of reach. Devlin Kelly's jealousy of Aidan leads him to continually seek revenge, even though the O'Brien family has remained loyal to the estate. Part Two of the story begins when Aidan is convicted of assault and transported to the young and untested land of Australia.

Sweeney's work is a vivid and colorful portrayal of Aidan's life, his victories, his sorrows and his loves. He is constantly struggling to make things just a little better, to have what he most desires, for himself and his family.

The Emancipist is masterfully written. Sweeney has the ability to place us in the center of activity and into the heart of her characters. This is one of those books you don't want to end.